Lyon begins summer tour of Scotland

9.47.03am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 28th Jul 2010

George Lyon, Liberal Democrat MEP for Scotland, has begun a tour of agricultural shows across Scotland to hear the views of farmers and crofters.

Mr Lyon is keen to highlight the campaigns he is running to aid rural Scotland - fighting for lower fuel prices for rural communities, honest and accurate food labelling and warning against the extension of the working time directive.

Commenting at the outset of his annual Scottish tour, Mr Lyon said:

"The short summer recess is a chance to take stock of what has been achieved in the past year but also what must be achieved in years ahead.

"The Scottish agricultural industry faces many key challenges and I am keen to hear from farmers what politicians of all stripes can do to help.

"Whether it is high rural fuel prices, protecting the good name of Scottish produce or ensuring farmers can do their jobs without fear of unnecessary bureaucracy, there is much that can be achieved in Europe.

"I hope to gather the support of many farmers across Scotland in the next week so I can go back to Brussels to fight Scotland's corner."

Mr Lyon will visit the following agricultural shows:

Saturday 31st July - Kelso Show

Monday 2nd August - Turriff Show

Thursday 5th August - Black Isle Show

Saturday 7th August - Voe Show, Shetland

Wednesday 11th August - Bute Show

Saturday 14th August - Orkney County Show